If you have ever thought about taking a road trip around Australia, you are not alone. The country has one of the most popular destinations globally. There are many things to consider, including which mode of transportation you need.
RVing is an incredible way to see this stunning country. However, before going anywhere, make sure to regularly get rid of any mould to help you have the best camping of your life. You wouldn’t want that to sabotage your chill vacation!
Here are the ten tips and tricks you need to consider to make your next road trip a success:
There’s No Such Thing As “Planning Too Much”
Traveling around Australia in an RV can be a wonderful experience but also a bit daunting. If you want to travel in peak times, there are better ways to go than being spontaneous. The things you must be looking at in advance are the following:
General Route
For a safer trip, it is highly beneficial for campers to follow road rules. To prevent getting stuck in the middle of nowhere or running out of gas, ensure you know where you are going before anything else. Moreover, you will have an idea of how far away your next stop is and how long it will take to get there.
RV Parks
While it can be tempting to pull over on the side of the road and start setting up camp, Australia often has strict laws about where you can park, how long you can stay, and what kind of vehicle you can have. Make sure to research which areas you can park your RV for a safer stay.
Choose the Right RV
Each RV is slightly different from the others. Whichever you choose should depend on numerous factors. You must answer the following questions to arrive with the best RV to use:
- What kind of travel do you plan to do?
- How many of you will be traveling?
- Are there any guests coming?
- Which type of RV can you comfortably drive?
- Is there enough space for supplies, luggage, and outdoor gear?
Stock Up on Your Chosen RV
What is camping without food and water? Always ensure to carry enough before traveling.
Take note that some shops are far from the campsite. When travelling in hot weather, bring sufficient food and water per person. At least 4 to 5 liters of water per individual is a good rule of thumb.
Another thing to consider is that Australia has some unpredictable weather conditions. It is not always sunny days and blue skies. Some states experience cooler nights and tropical rain, so make sure to bring the necessary things for that condition.
Take Advantage of Navigation Apps
You can download Google Maps on Google Play Store or App Store for free. Accessing a route offline is not a problem as long as you’ve searched for it before going out of service.
Let’s Go Motorhomes is also one of the handiest travel apps with valuable features. It includes maps, accommodation and campground options, grocery shops, petrol stations, and public toilets.
Check the Weather Forecast
Take note that Australia is not always full of sunshine. Any road tripper needs to check what weather they can expect in which state they are heading. For instance, if you are not into the hot season, plan your trip in cooler months or go where the temperature is less harsh.
What is crucial here is to make sure you have sunscreen and hats in your bag. It does not matter whether it is sunny or rainy because even on cloudy days, you can still burn.
Use an Itinerary
Using an itinerary helps you stick to the set route and keep a strict timeline wherever you want. Use it as a guide to go around things you want to make time for — like those bucket list spots!
However, it is crucial to keep your itinerary as flexible as possible. This will let you enjoy the trip while having the freedom to drive at your own pace.
Chat with Your Neighbours
Chit-chat with your co-travellers on the other vans while at the camp. Ask them about the best activities to do and see in the location. Their insights are the best source of tricks and tips for life on the road.
Break Up the Drive
When planning your route, consider time for breaks, especially looking at the distance. You should aim to have a break time of at least two hours in between. This allows you to keep sane while keeping everyone else safe on the road.
Mind the Wildlife
Australia has so many beautiful wildlife spots to enjoy. Fortunately, they can be free roaming.
On the other hand, if the wildlife location is near roads. Always remember to leave no trace, like taking your rubbish with you. Moreover, make sure to respect the wildlife’s home.
Obey the Rules of the Road
If you have been driving on Australian roads, you should be familiar with the rules and regulations on the road. However, if not, take these tips before hopping on your RV:
- Put your mobile phones away when driving.
- Australia has breath testing, so do not attempt to drive drunk.
- Remember that different towns and streets have their respective limits. Make sure to check your speed limits regularly wherever you are.
- Upgrade your RV’s tech with monitors and cameras to make reversing and parking easier.
